The taro roots, the kava roots and then the all important pig – the highest status of currency in the island!

The men simply lined up and started passing the taro roots from one end to the other!!

As Phillip was driving me to our first destination, we suddenly came upon this scene. Clearly, some kind of festivities were underway.

We stopped.

I asked Phillip what was going on and whether it would be alright for me to take a few pictures. He smiled and explained.

Apparently, in Vanuatu, circumcision marks a boy’s transition into manhood. Traditionally, the procedure is performed using sharpened bamboo, after which the boy spends a few weeks in strict isolation while he recovers. Emerging from that period is a major milestone, and the family celebrates it in style.

As you can see, everyone turns out in vibrant colors and traditional bamboo skirts. And all their faces smeared with brilliant colors. There is music, dancing, laughter, and no shortage of kava being shared.

You might also notice the piles of gifts. Instead of gift cards or kitchen appliances, the presents here are taro roots, yams, and kava roots. And then there is the pig.

A pig, as I was told, is one of the highest-status forms of wealth in Vanuatu. Suddenly, the phrase “bringing home the bacon” took on an entirely different meaning.

The entire island – like most islands – are thick in green canopy. The recent rains have sprung the green around us with renewed vigor!!

Phillip and I are all ready to hit the road and see what has Vanuatu wrought for me!